UNGA 71: Update on Human Rights Situation in Iran – November 2016

The human rights situation in Iran remains one of systemic violations that are deeply rooted in laws, policies, and practices. The chronic nature of the situation requires sustained attention by the international community and United Nations system.

While the Iranian government has recently made some positive human rights overtures and taken a few welcomed steps, the government has not prioritized human rights reforms. Moreover, the international human rights portfolio remains under the control of Iran’s High Council for Human Rights, a body linked to the Judiciary and the office of the Supreme Leader, state institutions that are openly averse to universal human rights norms.

Issues of serious human rights concern outlined by United Nations treaty bodies and special procedures remain numerous and include violations of core civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights. The following update provides a broad overview of some of the most pressing issues.